Cleaning mildew off flagstone patio without killing moss in the cracks
I have a flagstone patio which was dry laid with sand between the cracks which has gradually become moss. Every spring I pressurewash the green mildew off the flagstones, but it’s a real chore to do that without blasting all the moss away. Is there a bleach solution I could use to get the mildew off without killing the moss in the cracks? I’m not sure that a bleach would even remove the layer of mildew but if there’s anywhere to get an answer it would be here.
Frank
Replies
The "mildew" (probably algae)
The "mildew" (probably algae) and the moss are pretty much the same vegetable, and what kills one will likely kill the other.
The short answer is "No."
The short answer is "No." However, you can buy moss which you can stuff in the cracks after you clean.
The one thing you can do is CAREFULLY wipe the flagstones with a bleach solution, while keeping the solution off the moss. A reasonably strong bleach solution should instantly kill the algae on the stones.
Good idea!
Thanks, I'll try this.
cleaning patio
Power wash VERY CAREFULLY.
Break up the crud on the stones with a brush and pressure wash with the softest pattern you have.
Use a very abrasive push broom and scrub the patio down with some soapy water, then rinse with a hose. Might work, might not, but that would be try #1 for me.